Answering the call – one educator’s story

I’ve always believed that being a Kindermusik educator is a calling, a purpose, a mission that every educator is called to . . . for one particular reason or another, and each of us receives that calling in a special and particular way.

My calling came over 11 years ago, when my first son, Jamie was born into the world, and into my heart, with Down Syndrome. When the doctors first nestled Jamie into my arms and explained his special needs to my husband and me, I knew I would never be the same. What I didn’t know at the time though, and which I now know with no uncertainty is that my life is better . . . blessed . . . and so much more beautiful, because of him.
I knew — as the doctors told me when he was born — I would need to teach Jamie every step of the way growing up, to help him reach his full potential. (This in fact went on to become one of my main reasons for eventually becoming a Kindermusik educator). What I didn’t know at the time, is that Jamie would go on to teach me so many more important lessons along the way . . . to be a better mother, a patient teacher, and ignite in me a genuine passion for connecting with other children and parents through another one of my passions, music.
Because of Jamie, I have been inspired to change careers from a fast-paced corporate life to running my own business that includes and celebrates families, parenthood, and being a child. Because of Jamie, I have discovered that teaching Kindermusik, and singing, dancing, and being with children every day is one of my most favorite things to do, no doubt the best job in the world. Because of Jamie, I have learned to celebrate and appreciate every moment and life experience for what is – an invitation to grow and become better, no matter what.
Now, as I go into what will soon be 10 years teaching Kindermusik, I give thanks for the many children and families whom I have been privileged to teach, as well as the “kindred-spirits” and great friends and educators in Kindermusik (Ally being one of them! J) whom I have been blessed to meet along the way, and I am humbled and grateful for the gift of Jamie . . . my son, who so many years ago (probably even to the beginning of time) was destined to be mine — to change me, and to change the world for the better.
Thank you Ally – and thank you Bryann! – for being an inspiration to me and my family with your great heart for teaching. You and your passion make me believe in the possibility of all things, and my faith and hope for the future is only strengthened. My prayer is that as we all continue our shared work in Kindermusik, we can go on to inspire even more families, parents, and children of all abilities to live and love life fully.
I believe that Kindermusik’s new Digital Teacher’s Guides, and the wonderful Kindermusik for Every Child initiative, will help be the catalyst to make this dream possible.
In thinking about my own journey with Jamie, I wanted to share a poem which I was inspired to write for him many years ago. I hope that it will serve as inspiration to any parents who may come into our Kindermusik classrooms in need of some strength and support for their children with special needs. I also hope it may possibly inspire other educator friends to participate and contribute to the Kindermusik for Every Child project. Together, I believe that all our hearts and spirits are meant to join as one to help uplift and inspire our children – and each other – to shine brightly, and to sing and dance joyfully.
Thank you Kindermusik for bringing all of us together for what truly is important work – a calling to teach, and learn, from the heart. ♥
~ Jeannie Castillo is the Distributor for Kindermusik in the Philippines, as well as Director for her Maestro program Kindermusik with Teacher Jeannie & Company, proudly among the top 1% of Kindermusik programs worldwide.

God’s Whisper

~ A poem by Jeannie Castillo for her son, Jamie ~

When you came, I heard God whisper,

“Take care of this little one.

He’s one of my special spirits

Accept him as your son.

He may need some extra attention

Some added patience and some time

But he’ll grow into a beautiful person

With your love, he’ll be just fine.

You’ll see that he will surprise you

He’ll amaze you with his soul

He’ll bring you joy and endless wonder

In his way, he’ll make you whole.

For every smile will be a miracle

Each new step, a victory

His growth will be blessed and meaningful

His life is a gift from Me.

This angel is your reminder

Of what is pure and what is true

It’s not what the world says that matters

What matters is all up to you.

You are the one who will teach him

That he is perfect in My eyes

With Me, he can move mountains

He can do anything, he need only try.

For this child has a magnificent spirit

He was meant to do wonderful things

His life has a special mission

I will raise him on eagle’s wings

To soar high and live life fully

To sing and laugh and love

So you must raise him with warmth and tenderness,

With Me, you’ll have enough.

Now always remember this message,

Be brave and strong and true

Know that I am with you

Remember that I chose you.

I chose you for this mission.

This is your gift to Me.

Take care of him well and let him be loved,

For when you love him . . . you love Me.”

~~~

November 2001

© R.H. Castillo

3 Replies to “Answering the call – one educator’s story”

  1. I am so touched by this article and I am proud to say that Teacher Jeannie is my mentor in Kindermusik Philippines. Kindermusik is a calling, as what Teacher Jeannie said. I totally agree. I have decided wholeheartedly to pursue it as well so I can somehow be closer to my family, inspire more families and somehow change the world we live in through music.

  2. Thank you for sharing your story! You have a handsome little man! I was looking at this website at classes for my daughter who also has DS and came across your article. Definitely will get her involved with music. I think it is so great for all kids!

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